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In an effort to increase motorcycle safety and awareness across the state, the Department of Public Safety’s Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program offers training classes for both beginning and advanced motorcycle operators. Initially created under the Department of Education, for the past thirty years the motorcycle training program has continuously provided Louisiana motorcyclists with invaluable safe riding skills helping to keep our roadways safe.

Through the efforts of State Representative M.J. "Mert" Smiley, the Motorcycle Safety, Awareness, and Operator Training Program was reinvented and transferred to the Department of Public Safety during the 2009 Regular Legislative session. Since holding its first class in February of 2010, the program has successfully trained over 800 motorcycle operators across the state. A major supporter of the program, Representative Smiley explains its importance, “Through providing riders with the knowledge and skills necessary to be as safe as possible, we are hoping to ensure a pleasurable riding experience to everyone on our roadways.”

According to statistics from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, in 2010 motorcyclists were involved in over 1800 crashes across the state resulting in 73 fatalities. Through participation in the program, riders are educated on safe riding practices including: Being visible, Dressing for safety, Applying effective riding strategies, and Knowing the capabilities and limitations of your bike. During the program’s hands-on training exercises, motorcyclists are taught to apply these safety practices to not only avoid being involved in a crash but to greatly reduce the chance of injury should a crash occur.

The program is currently offered at 7 training sites across the state including locations in Baton Rouge, Hammond, Thibodaux, Lake Charles, Lafayette, West Monroe, and Gonzales. Two additional training locations are scheduled to open soon in Shreveport and Westwego.

Additional information on the Basic and Advanced Rider course as well as training dates and locations, can be found at www.LSP.org under “Training” or by dialing 225-925-6113 ext 224.

In promotion of the training program and motorcycle awareness, media representatives are invited to attend a viewing of the department’s Basic Rider Course held at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales, LA on Saturday, July 23^rd, 2011 at approximately 9:30 am.

Contact Information:
TFC Nick Manale
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Unit - Troop L
Office: (985) 893-6250 Ext: 628
Nicholas.Manale@dps.la.gov
www.LSP.org